Date of Award

6-1988

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Dr. Alan D. Poling

Second Advisor

Dr. Wayne Fuqua

Third Advisor

Dr. Malcolm Robertson

Access Setting

Masters Thesis-Open Access

Abstract

Two procedures were compared in teaching the skill of generalized imitation. One procedure incorporated some of the subject's daily behavior repertoire into the imitation training paradigm. Another similar procedure utilized non-repertoire responses during training. Two male profoundly mentally retarded adults were trained with each procedure. Overall, the acquisition of generalized imitation was facilitated by incorporating daily repertoire behaviors into the imitation training packages. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in levels of generalized imitation as a function of training condition. Results were variable across subjects however, and it is questionable whether the difference is clinically significant. Further and more refined research is needed to compare the two procedures adequately. Suggestions were made for incorporating the studies assessment strategies and research methodology into future research conducted in this area.

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